what pressure should pool filter be

Author: Poolking - Swimming Pool Equipment Manufacturer

Introduction

Swimming pools are a great place to relax, exercise, and have fun. However, every pool owner needs to know how to maintain their pool properly. One of the most important parts of pool maintenance is to check the pool filter's pressure. If you have a pool, you need to know what the correct pressure for your pool filter is.

What is Pool Filter Pressure?

Before we dive in, it’s essential to talk about what pool filter pressure is and why you need to keep an eye on it. The pool filter pressure is essentially the force exerted by the water through the pool filter tank. Your pool filter serves as your pool’s kidneys, and it’s responsible for removing any debris or contaminants from the water.

What Should My Pool Filter Pressure Be?

The answer to this question is not a simple one as it varies depending on the type of filter you have. A good rule of thumb is to aim for a pressure of 10-15 psi over the initial pressure reading. For example, if your filter’s initial pressure was 10 psi, you should clean it when the pressure reaches 20 or 25 psi.

A High Pool Filter Pressure

If your pool filter pressure is too high, it’s a clear indication that it’s time to clean or backwash your filter. A dirty filter will restrict water flow, which will increase the pressure on the filter’s gauge.

Not only is this harmful to your filter, but it’s also bad for your pool. The higher pressure means that the pool’s circulation is reduced, which leads to a build-up of debris, algae, and bacteria. If not dealt with, this could lead to cloudy water or even algae infestations.

A Low Pool Filter Pressure

On the other hand, if your pool filter’s pressure is too low, it could be a sign that your pool pump is having trouble. Potential reasons for this could include blockages in the pump, a clogged skimmer, or a fault in the pool plumbing system. A low filter pressure could ultimately mean that the water in your pool is not circulating correctly, causing dirt and debris to remain in the pool instead of being removed by the filter.

How Often Should I Check the Pool Filter Pressure?

It’s generally recommended to check your pool filter pressure once a week. Keep in mind, though, that several factors could influence how often you need to check it. Things such as heavy pool usage or ongoing construction nearby may clog up the filter more quickly and need more frequent checks.

How to Adjust Pool Filter Pressure

Knowing how to adjust your pool filter’s pressure can save you from unnecessary expense and prolong your filter’s lifespan. A good way to do this is by backwashing your pool filter. Backwashing is the process of reversing the flow of water in the filter to loosen any debris that has built up and sending the waste out of the pool’s drainage.

Conclusion

Keeping an eye on your pool filter pressure is essential when it comes to maintaining the health of your pool. It’s one of the simplest yet most effective ways to prevent a host of problems without requiring extensive equipment or training. If you’re ever unsure, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional for guidance. By taking care of your pool and regularly checking the pool filter pressure, you’ll have a fun, safe, and healthy pool season.